Flavia Cacace's blog by Flavia_Cacace

Well that’s it, Midnight Tango is officially open! And what an opening night it was. We were all quite nervous as a lot of the national press was there in attendance as well as a whole host of famous faces and people that we knew. All our hard work was leading up to this night, as we know that reviews can sometimes make or break a show. All that we could do was go out there and do what we do best, dance and give our all. Judging by the audience reaction, everyone seemed to enjoy it but then again a lot of them were friends and family. Many of my Strictly friends were there too including Russell Grant, Lulu, Tess Daly, Pamela Stephenson and James and Ola. Russell was beside himself, a very proud Mama Rose; I can’t wait to see him as the Wizard.

There was a party after the show and the drinks flowed, although we were all exhausted because it was a big relief that we had actually got through the evening. Here’s to the next 9 weeks!! What about the snow then? That was quite crazy. I have to admit I love it when it snows and have done ever since I was a kid. I did think we had no chance of getting any this year to be honest with the warm winter we’ve had, but it came down heavily where I live in London and the whole place was covered. I know it can be quite disruptive, but it still brings a smile my face when it starts to fall. I’m just upset I didn’t get to make a snowman as it has all gone already! Oh well maybe next year.

One thing I did do this week was get my nails done. I know that might not sound that much of an achievement but believe me, it is for me. I can’t seem to sit still long enough to put nail polish on, never mind have a professional manicure and I have never been a fan of Acrylic nails as they have a tendency to damage your own. So I thought I’d try this new nail treatment called Shellac Nails, as it’s supposed to last at least 14 days without chipping, scratching or smudging. Also many women have noticed that that their nails are stronger and healthier after using Shellac, so it’s much better for you than acrylic.

With doing the show I think this could be the answer to my nail problems and be robust enough to last. So far so good, if it’s as good as they say it is I’ll be a convert. As I said last week I'm no longer in rehearsals, which is giving me more time to catch up with the other things in my life. One of the things I’m looking forward to doing is going to the gym. People often say to me “do you really need to, what with all the dancing you do?” and the answer is “yes”. As dancers it’s important to try and relax the muscles and improve our flexibility which can be hard if you do what we do every day. That’s why it’s important to switch it up and exercise and stretch different muscle groups when you get the opportunity.

One thing I have starting using this week, which has been incredible for me, is a RumbleRoller. It’s a foam Pilates like roller that contains specially designed bumps that are firm but flexible, like the thumbs of a massage therapist. It’s incredible for relieving pain by kneading the contours of your body whilst giving you a gentle stretch. It has literally been a lifesaver and I can’t recommend it enough. Anyway back to the show hope you all have a wonderful wee. Love FC xx